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Dynamic balance changes within three weeks of fitting a new prosthetic foot component
Jenny A Kent1, Nicholas Stergiou2, Shane R Wurdeman1
1Department of Biomechanics and Center for Research in Human Movement Variability, University of Nebraska at Omaha, 6160 University Drive, Omaha, NE 68182-0860, USA.
Gait & Posture
|July 14, 2017
Summary
New prosthetic feet can alter walking balance in amputees. A 3-week adaptation period showed significant changes in dynamic balance, indicating adaptation occurs regardless of prosthetic component type.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Prosthetics
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Walking balance is crucial for prosthesis users.
- Adaptation to new prosthetic components can influence balance.
- Quantifying dynamic balance is essential for evaluating prosthetic effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in walking balance during a 3-week adaptation period after fitting new prosthetic components.
- To compare balance adjustments between a Higher Activity and a Lower Activity prosthetic foot.
- To assess the impact of prosthetic component familiarity on balance adaptation.
Main Methods:
- 21 unilateral transtibial amputees participated.
- Dynamic balance was measured using medial-lateral margin of stability (MOSML) and anterior instability margin (AIM).
- Participants walked with two prosthetic feet (Higher Activity and Lower Activity) and were assessed before and after a 3-week adaptation period for each.
Main Results:
- With the Higher Activity foot, MOSML shifted, reducing inter-limb differences.
- No significant MOSML changes were observed with the Lower Activity foot.
- Significant changes in AIM were noted after the adaptation period for both prosthetic types.
Conclusions:
- Walking balance can change after receiving a new prosthetic device.
- Adaptation occurs regardless of whether the new component is similar to the user's previous one.
- These findings highlight the dynamic nature of balance adjustment in prosthesis users.
